Logitechhttp://www.maclife.com/taxonomy/term/455/all
enMorning Report: Apple Won't Abandon Arizona, Logitech AnyAngle, Chrome 39http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_apple_wont_abandon_arizona_logitech_anyangle_chrome_39
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_anyangle_case_620px.png" alt="Logitech AnyAngle" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Our Wednesday Morning Report is a veritable cornucopia of good news, particularly for the residents of Mesa, Arizona, who may get a reprieve following the failed sapphire manufacturing facility former Apple partner GT Advanced abandoned last month. Chrome for Mac also gains 64-bit support, and owners of the latest iPad models have a great new case option as well.&nbsp;</p><h3>Apple Plans to Repurpose Arizona Sapphire Facility</h3><p>Apple's plans for a sapphire manufacturing facility based in Mesa, Arizona may have hit the skids following the bankruptcy of former partner GT Advanced Technologies, but the Phoenix suburb of nearly half a million residents may get a chance to reclaim the more than 700 jobs lost when the factory shut down abruptly last month.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-11-18/apple-sticking-with-arizona-plan-after-supplier-falters.html" target="_blank">Bloomberg reported Tuesday</a> that Apple has been in touch with members of the Mesa government in an effort to "repurpose" the 1.3 million square-foot factory and use it to preserve as many Arizona jobs as possible.<br /><br />“They’ve indicated their commitment to us: They want to repurpose that building and use it again,” explained Mesa city manager Christopher Brady, who claims Apple has promised to “work with state and local officials as we consider our next steps."<br /><br />"Apple could’ve invested in a facility literally anywhere in the world,” added Mesa mayor John Giles. “There’s a reason they came here, and none of those reasons have changed.”</p><h3>Logitech Debuts New AnyAngle Case for iPad Air 2, iPad mini</h3><p><a href="http://news.logitech.com/press-release/consumer-products/new-logitech-anyangle-brings-flexibility-and-protection-ipad-air-2-a" target="_blank">Logitech today announced</a> a new case for iPad Air 2 and iPad mini models called AnyAngle, which offers all-around protection capable of morphing into a stand that adjusts to whatever comfortable angle the user needs. Priced at $59.99, the Logitech AnyAngle features an integrated, hidden hinge that keeps the iPad firmly held in place at any angle within a 50-degree range.<br /><br />Available in six colors (black, red/blue, violet, grey, teal, and yellow), Logitech AnyAngle is now available for preorder from the company's website, with wider availability in the U.S. and Europe later this month.</p><h3>Google Releases Chrome 39 with 64-Bit Mac Support</h3><p>Mac users, rejoice! <a href="http://googlechromereleases.blogspot.com/2014/11/stable-channel-update_18.html" target="_blank">The Google Chrome team announced Tuesday</a> the release of Chrome 39 to the stable channel, which includes "a number of fixes and improvements" headlined by 64-bit support for OS X at long last. Version 39.0.2171.65 also features "a number of new apps/extension APIs" as well as "lots of under-the-hood changes for stability and performance," along with 42 security fixes that apply to Mac, Windows, and Linux releases. Chrome 39 can be installed from the auto-updater of your current version, or downloaded directly from the Google Chrome website.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_apple_wont_abandon_arizona_logitech_anyangle_chrome_39#commentsNews64-bitAnyAngleApple Inc.ArizonachromeGT Advanced Technologiesipad casesLogitechMesaMorning ReportsapphireSoftware UpdatesiPadMacWed, 19 Nov 2014 13:23:11 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20961 at http://www.maclife.comMorning Report: Cook Talks Apple Pay, Logitech Keys-To-Go, OneDrive Unlimitedhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_cook_talks_apple_pay_logitech_keystogo_onedrive_unlimited
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/time_cook_wsjd_live_620px.png" alt="Tim Cook at WSJD Live" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Despite recent headlines on how retailers are rebuffing Apple Pay, the mobile payment service is already apparently more popular than the two NFC-based systems that preceded it — and Apple CEO Tim Cook had plenty more to share at the WSJD Live conference last night. Our Tuesday Morning Report has the details, along with new iPad keyboard solutions from Logitech and a huge cloud storage bump from Microsoft.</p><h3>Tim Cook Touts 1M Apple Pay Cards, Explains Death of iPod classic</h3><p><a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2014/10/27/apples-next-chapter-a-qa-with-tim-cook-live-blog/?mod=e2tw" target="_blank">Apple CEO took the stage to close out Monday night's WSJD Live conference</a>, talking shop with <em>The Wall Street Journal</em>&nbsp;editor-in-chief on the company's current and future products. After noting the obvious (the iPhone "is the majority of the company's revenue"), Cook added the Mac platform still "has a great future," following "remarkable" growth last quarter.<br /><br />Switching gears to Apple Pay, Cook revealed the service saw more than one million card activations in the first 72 hours, handily beating current mobile payment services like Google Wallet and SoftCard (formerly ISIS). On the subject of the current controversy CVS and Rite Aid — who have disabled NFC terminals in favor of rival service CurrentC — Cook appeared unfazed, adding "over the long arc of time" retailers will "have to do what shoppers want."<br /><br />The forthcoming Apple Watch also came up during the interview, and although Cook was dodgy about what the battery life might be, he confirmed "you’re going to wind up charging it daily." The CEO praised HBO's recent decision to offer web-only subscriptions, but once again dodged how Apple might be able to improve the TV space.<br /><br />Cook closed out the evening by elaborating on what led to the demise of the iPod classic, which was finally put out to pasture earlier this month. In response to a question from the audience, Cook claimed the music player was the victim of the supply chain — Apple could no longer obtain the necessary parts to continue manufacturing the 160GB hard drive-based gadget.</p><h3>Logitech Keys-To-Go Brings Surface-Style Keyboard to iPad</h3><p><a href="http://blog.logitech.com/?p=21906" target="_blank">Logitech today announced</a> a new ultra-portable Bluetooth keyboard for iPad called <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/keys-to-go-ipad" target="_blank">Keys-To-Go</a>. Priced at $69.99 and available in black, red, or teal, Keys-To-Go appears to have been inspired by Microsoft's Surface touch keyboard, but is thin, light, and durable enough for on-the-go typing. Weighing a mere 180 grams and only 6.1mm thin, Keys-To-Go features a water-repellent FabricSkin that helps keep spills and dirt at bay, and is compatible with all generations of the iPad and iPad mini.<br /><br />Logitech has also updated the existing <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/type-plus-keyboard-ipad-air2" target="_blank">Type+</a> and <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/ultrathin-keyboard-ipad-air2" target="_blank">Ultrathin</a> cases for Apple's latest iPad Air 2 model, with the former available in black, dark blue, bright red, bright green, electric blue, or violet for $99.99, while the latter drops to $89.99 in space grey or silver color options. All three products will hit the US, Europe, and select Asian countries beginning next month, but can be preordered from the Logitech website today.</p><h3>Microsoft Drops Storage Limits for Office 365 Subscribers</h3><p>Cloud storage provider Bitcasa made headlines last week after announcing that grandfathered subscribers to its unlimited Infinite Drive plans are being forced onto new 1TB or 10TB plans by mid-November, but <a href="https://blog.onedrive.com/office-365-onedrive-unlimited-storage/?linkId=10218942" target="_blank">Microsoft announced Monday</a> that they're going in the opposite direction. Office 365 subscribers will now receive unlimited OneDrive storage for all home, personal, and university users at no additional cost, a significant bump from Redmond's already generous 1TB per account.<br /><br />The unlimited OneDrive storage will roll out gradually to all Office 365 subscribers, but there's <a href="https://preview.onedrive.com/?wt.mc_id=oo_blog_onedrive_insertblogtitlehere" target="_blank">a signup link</a> to get bumped to the head of the line; Microsoft also noted smartphone owners could activate the Camera Roll auto upload feature in the OneDrive mobile app to kickstart the free storage bump. Your move, Bitcasa...<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p><em>(Image courtesy of WSJD Live)</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_cook_talks_apple_pay_logitech_keystogo_onedrive_unlimited#commentsNewsApple Payipad air 2ipad casesipod classicKeys-To-GoLogitechMicrosoftMorning ReportOneDriveTim CookunlimitedWSJD LiveiPadiPhoneiPodMacTue, 28 Oct 2014 12:45:44 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20854 at http://www.maclife.comMorning Report: iCloud Activation Lock Tool, Pioneer CarPlay Now Available, Type+http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_icloud_activation_lock_tool_pioneer_carplay_now_available_type
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/activation_lock_status_web_tool_620px.png" alt="Activation Lock Status tool" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>We're suddenly very envious of readers with one of Pioneer's recent NEX multimedia receivers in their car dashboard, which can now be upgraded to Apple CarPlay. Our Thursday Morning Report also has details on Apple's new iCloud tool for checking Activation Lock Status, as well as a new Logitech keyboard case for iPad Air.</p><h3>Apple Debuts Online Tool for Checking iOS Activation Lock Status</h3><p>Reselling an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch isn't quite as easy as it used to be, thanks to the Activation Lock Apple introduced with iOS 7. Unless Find My iPhone is disabled prior to gifting or selling an iOS device, the original user's Apple ID and password will be required to access the hardware again — great for cutting down on theft, but not so great for resellers.<br /><br />On Wednesday, Apple introduced <a href="http://www.icloud.com/activationlock/" target="_blank">Check Activation Lock Status</a>, an online web tool which allows potential hardware buyers to enter a Device IMEI or Serial Number in order to confirm Find My iPhone Activation Lock has been turned off. The software is part of iCloud.com, and should finally make life easier for those in the market for a used iOS device.</p><h3>Pioneer NEX Systems Become First to Enable Apple CarPlay</h3><p>Just when it started to look like CarPlay might not make it for 2014, <a href="http://www.pioneer-carglobal.com/en/CarPlay/" target="_blank">Pioneer announced Thursday</a> availability of <a href="http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Support/Downloads" target="_blank">free firmware updates</a> for five of this year's in-dash NEX aftermarket receivers, which allow drivers to use existing hardware to make hands-free calls, receive turn-by-turn navigation, play music, and send text messages using Siri from an iPhone 5 or higher.<br /><br />CarPlay support is available on Pioneer's CarPlay-compatible AVIC-8000NEX, AVIC-7000NEX, AVIC-6000NEX, AVIC-5000NEX, and AVH-4000NEX models, which range in price from $699.99 all the way up to $1399.99. Pioneer's latest smartphone-friendly AppRadio 4 ($599.99) is also compatible.<br /><br />Apple CarPlay is expected to roll out to new automobiles from Audi, BMW, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and others over the next year.</p><h3>Logitech Type+ for iPad Air Combines Protection, Style</h3><p>For those who do enough typing on their iPad Air to need a hardware keyboard built into the case, <a href="http://blog.logitech.com/2014/10/01/logitech-type-brings-improved-typing-to-the-ipad-air/" target="_blank">Logitech debuted its latest solution on Wednesday</a> with the introduction of <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/type-plus-keyboard-ipad-air?wt.mc_id=global_typeair" target="_blank">Type+</a>. Available in Carbon Black or Mars Red Orange, the $99.99 protective case featuring an integrated keyboard promises an "exceptional typing experience" with two-sided protection, all while remaining thin and light enough to carry around every day.<br /><br />Type+ users will also be able to get a lot of mileage out of their new case, with up to three months of battery life on a single USB charge when used for an average of two hours per day. Logitech Type+ is now available for preorder, and expected to ship later this month.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_icloud_activation_lock_tool_pioneer_carplay_now_available_type#commentsNewsActivation LockApple Inc.bluetooth keyboard casesCarPlayiCloud.comLogitechMorning ReportNEXPioneerType PlusiPadiPhoneiPodMacThu, 02 Oct 2014 12:18:17 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20718 at http://www.maclife.comMorning Report: iPhone 6 Goes On Sale, iFixit Cracks Open iPhone 6 Plushttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_iphone_6_goes_sale_ifixit_cracks_open_iphone_6_plus
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/iphone_6_launch_australia_620px.png" alt="iPhone 6 launch in Sydney" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Happy iPhone 6 Day! The masses once again lined up around the globe in an effort to become one of the first to buy a new iPhone 6, and this year's winner certainly made an impression, as you'll see in today's Morning Report. We've also got the first details of an iFixit teardown of the iPhone 6 Plus, as well as a look at how Logitech plans to take on Apple's HomeKit. What are you waiting for? Click and dig in...</p><h3>First iPhone 6 Buyer Immediately Performs Impromptu Drop Test</h3><p>Consumers once again lined up in droves at retail stores around the globe for Apple's latest iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus on Friday. Thanks to the earlier time zone, Australia became the first country to swing their doors open for business, and the occasion was marked by the appearance of Apple senior vice president of retail Angela Ahrendts, who was on hand in Sydney to see it all go down.<br /><br />"Phenomenal start to a historic day and an honor to be with our incredible team and first customers in Sydney," <a href="https://twitter.com/AngelaAhrendts/status/512740033464242176/photo/1" target="_blank">Ahrendts tweeted</a>, accompanied by the photo above showing some of her Apple retail minions getting ready to greet the crowd.<br /><br />As is typical with launch day hysteria, the media put a special focus on the first person to walk out of a retail store with an iPhone 6 in their hand. Today it was Jack Cooksey, <a href="http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/jack-cooksey-first-to-walk-out-of-perth-apple-store-with-new-iphone-6-then-it-crashed-to-the-pavement/story-fnhocxo3-1227063865768?nk=f9766c2700c33451b5ab3973d16bcacb" target="_blank">who quickly became best known for having butterfingers</a> as he attempted to unbox his new toy in front of a live news feed and promptly dropped it onto the sidewalk.<br /><br />“I dropped it in a panic to get it open,” Cooksey remarked following the incident. “Luckily it’s covered in plastic, so it’s fine.” Cooksey was the first of more than 200 consumers who camped out overnight in front of the Perth, Australia Apple Store.<br /><br /><iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YbehPQfu3K0" width="620" height="349" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><h3>iFixit Guts iPhone 6 Plus, Finds Ginormous Battery Inside</h3><p>As part of a now annual ritual, <a href="https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/iPhone+6+Plus+Teardown/29206" target="_blank">the gang at iFixit</a> was on hand for today's launch of the iPhone 6 in Australia, where the team of gadget surgeons managed to get their hands on one of the first iPhone 6 Plus models to land in the hands of consumers. And they did what they always do: Proceed to dismantle Apple's latest hardware to find out what makes it tick.<br /><br />Among the discoveries made by iFixit in the wee hours of Friday morning: Confirmation that the device does indeed come with only 1GB RAM, and to the surprise of almost no one, an enormous 2915mAh battery, which exactly matches that shown off in leaks in the weeks leading up to Apple's formal announcement last week.<br /><br />To put the size of this monster battery in perspective, it's far larger than the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 (1810mAh), and nearly double the size of the one inside the iPhone 5S (1560mAh), which explains why early reviewers noted the iPhone 6 Plus could go nearly two days without charging.</p><h3>Logitech Takes on HomeKit with Harmony Living Home Lineup</h3><p>Amidst the roar of iOS 8 and iPhone 6 this week, <a href=" http://blog.logitech.com/2014/09/17/logitech-gives-you-unprecedented-control-of-your-smart-home-with-the-new-logitech-harmony-living-home-lineup/" target="_blank">Logitech introduced a new line of Harmony Living Home products</a>, stretching their wings from controlling home theater setups to entire homes. The lineup includes the Logitech Harmony Home Hub, which allows users to automate their home using nothing more than a smartphone or tablet, powering a wide range of hardware including televisions, set-top boxes, speakers, lighting, thermostat, door locks, window shades, and more.<br /><br />Logitech is also debuting the Home Hub in a bundle with two different remotes: Harmony Home Control offers a simple hardware remote, while the Harmony Ultimate Home features a bright 2.4-inch color touchscreen capable of controlling home automation devices as well as 15 home entertainment devices.<br /><br />Beginning September 21, Logitech and Best Buy are teaming up to offer existing Harmony remote owners the option to recycle their current product and upgrade to Harmony Ultimate Home at a $100 discount; the deal runs through November 1.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_iphone_6_goes_sale_ifixit_cracks_open_iphone_6_plus#commentsNewsAngela AhrendtsApple Inc.Apple Retail Storesaustraliadrop testHarmonyifixitiphone 6iPhone 6 PlusLogitechMorning ReportiPhoneFri, 19 Sep 2014 12:22:53 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20657 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's Best Deals for Your Mac and iOS Device, September 4http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_september_4
<!--paging_filter--><p>As everyone who reads these columns more than once knows that we like to focus on refurbs that aren't too old. Picking a Mac that's 2 years old gets you a decent enough machine, but everyone prefers brand-spanking new. This week, we're excited because there are some MacBook Airs in here from THIS YEAR. That's pretty doggone new, and all our others are less than 1 year old, so these are some pretty sweet refurbs in action.</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_september_4#commentsGalleryDealsBelkinbluetooth keyboardBluetooth SpeakersDealsEarPodsExternal BatteryHeadphonesiMaciPadiPad keyboardipad wireless keyboardiphoneiphone 5iphone 5 caseiPhone 5Siphone 5S caseiPhone caseKeyboardlightning cableLogitechMacBookmacbook airmacbook proMophiemophie batteryrefurbRefurbishedrefurbsspeakersweekly dealswireless keyboardwireless speakersZAGGThu, 04 Sep 2014 17:28:34 +0000J Keirn-Swanson20575 at http://www.maclife.comMorning Report: Jony Ive Puts Switzerland on Watch, U2-Apple Rumors Aboundhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_jony_ive_puts_switzerland_watch_u2apple_rumors_abound
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_bluetooth_keyboard_k480_620px.png" alt="Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Each year, the fervor surrounding the latest iPhone seems to increase to a fever pitch. This year, shoppers are lining up even before Apple announces a new model, not to mention the fabled iWatch, which many believe will be Cupertino's curveball. Thursday's Morning Report takes a new look at that device as well as rumors of U2's involvement in next week's festivities.</p><h3>Apple's Jonathan Ive: Swiss Watch Makers Are Screwed</h3><p>Although there has been no official confirmation as yet, pretty much everyone believes Apple is working on a smartwatch — affectionately dubbed "iWatch" by the media — that will potentially act as a companion accessory to the company's popular iPhone. On Wednesday, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/04/fashion/intel-and-opening-ceremony-collaborate-on-mica-a-stylish-tech-bracelet.html?_r=1" target="_blank"><em>The New York Times</em> published</a> a look at the more fashionable wearable devices, and tucked away inside the piece was an eye-raising paragraph which provides possible insight into Apple's fabled smartwatch.<br /><br />"According to a designer who works at Apple, Jonathan Ive, Apple’s design chief, in bragging about how cool he thought the iWatch was shaping up to be, gleefully said Switzerland is in trouble — though he chose a much bolder term for 'trouble' to express how he thought the watchmaking nation might be in a tough predicament when Apple’s watch comes out," the report elaborated.<br /><br />Quite a bold statement, but if anyone can make it, we'd certainly place our bets on the guy who designed the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad.</p><h3>Logitech Announces Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard</h3><p>Could there really be one keyboard to rule them all? <a href="http://news.logitech.com/press-release/consumer-products/logitech-unveils-first-keyboard-designed-your-computer-smartphone-an" target="_blank">Logitech seems to think so</a> with its new <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/multi-device-keyboard-k480?wt.mc_id=global_news_k480" target="_blank">Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480 </a>launched Wednesday. Shipping later this month in the U.S. and Europe, the K480 is described as a desk keyboard capable of connecting with up to three devices with the flick of an Easy-Switch dial — including Mac, Windows, Chrome, iOS, or Android smartphones and tablets.<br /><br />Priced at $49.99 and available in a choice of two color schemes, the K480 even thoughtfully includes the most-used keyboard shortcuts, as well as an integrated stand for holding one or more mobile devices at just the right angle — and could finally deliver an all-in-one solution for juggling multiple devices.</p><h3>U2 Rumored to Take Part in Apple Media Event Next Week</h3><p><a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2014/09/03/u2-iphone-6-launch-rumors/" target="_blank">MacRumors reported yesterday</a> that a pair of new rumors posted to Twitter appear to be connecting the dots between rock band U2 and next week's presumed unveiling of the iPhone 6.<br /><br />The first comes from music promoter Stephen Browne, who attended a secret music video shoot with the band in Dublin, where "black sheets [were] strategically placed to obscure what was happening from public view" — a well-known Apple tactic. Not so coincidentally, the focus of the video is said to be a phone, which a separate report from a U2 fan site claims may actually be an Apple commercial.<br /><br />Finally, there's that massive structure Apple is building at the Flint Center, where next Tuesday's media event will take place. CNET plays connect the dots by suggesting it's being constructed because U2 frontman Bono "may be [a] special musical guest" — lending further credence to a Cupertino resident who described the structure as "like a sound stage going up for a rock concert."<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_jony_ive_puts_switzerland_watch_u2apple_rumors_abound#commentsNewsApple iWatchApple Media Eventapple rumorsbluetooth keyboardsBonoJonathan IveLogitechMorning ReportU2iPadiPhoneiPodMacThu, 04 Sep 2014 12:37:21 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20573 at http://www.maclife.comOvernight Recap: iTunes Pass Expands, Kindle Unlimited, Logitech Protection+http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_itunes_pass_expands_kindle_unlimited_logitech_protection
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/itunes_pass_on_passbook_620px.png" alt="iTunes Pass" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>iCloud users should feel a little safer while sending email this week, as <a href="http://9to5mac.com/2014/07/15/apple-begins-encrypting-icloud-email-sent-between-providers/" target="_blank">9to5Mac is reporting</a> that Apple now encrypts all digital missives sent between email providers. Cupertino confirmed such a change was in the works last month after a report surfaced outlining security flaws with major email services. But that's only the beginning of what we have on deck for our Thursday recap, so read on...</p><h3>iTunes Pass Now Available in USA, Europe</h3><p>Well, that was quick: On Tuesday, we reported that Apple had debuted a new Passbook feature called iTunes Pass, but only in Japan — and now the feature is <a href="http://www.apple.com/itunes/gifts/" target="_blank">live for the rest of the world</a> as well. By visiting the iTunes Store or App Store app from an iPhone or iPod touch and tapping the Redeem button, shoppers will now see an option at the bottom to add iTunes Pass to Passbook, which allows easy refill of iTunes Store credit from any Apple retail location, no gift card required. It's not quite the full-featured mobile payment service of our dreams, but could be a baby step into the future.</p><h3>Amazon Testing $9.99 Per Month Kindle Unlimited Subscription</h3><p><a href="http://gigaom.com/2014/07/16/amazon-is-testing-kindle-unlimited-an-ebook-subscription-service-for-9-99month/" target="_blank">GigaOM reported Wednesday</a> that avid ebook readers may soon have plenty to get excited about now that Amazon has mistakenly leaked a new $9.99 per month subscription service entitled Kindle Unlimited on their website. Offering access to more than 600,000 ebooks along with more than 7,000 Whispersync for Voice-activated audiobook titles, the service appears to be going head-on with existing rivals Scribd and Oyster, although at this writing major publishers including Simon &amp; Schuster and HarperCollins appear to be a no-show. No word on when the service might actually launch, although the pieces and parts seem to already be in place.</p><h3>Logitech Debuts Protection+ iPhone Cases</h3><p>Step aside, Otterbox: <a href="http://news.logitech.com/press-release/logitech-protection-case-gives-peace-mind-go-samsung-and-iphone-users" target="_blank">Logitech is getting into the heavy-duty case market</a> this week with the $34.99 Protection+ for iPhone 5/5s. Available in Winter White, Gunmetal Black, Scarlett Plum or Pacific Blue colors, the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/protection-plus-for-iphone" target="_blank">Protection+</a> cases feature an "ultra-protective outer shell" with shock-absorbent corners that exceed military drop standards — even from heights as much as 1.8 meters. A hidden metal plate in the back of the case allows for seamless compatibility with Logitech+ mounts, including a nifty car mount where the iPhone can magnetically snap into place. Logitech is now accepting preorders for Protection+, which will be available next month in the U.S. and Europe.</p><h3>Google+ Now Allows Fake User Names</h3><p>Prefer to be known by an alias? Up until now, that was a no-no on Google+, but the "me too" social network had a change of heart this week, lifting a previous restriction that required using your real name on the service. "We hope that today's change is a step toward making Google+ the welcoming and inclusive place that we want it to be," the service announced in — where else? — a <a href="https://plus.google.com/+googleplus/posts/V5XkYQYYJqy" target="_blank">Google+ post on Tuesday</a>. Will it help stave off the ever-present threat of Facebook? Only time will tell.</p><h3>Microsoft Rolls Out Beefed Up OneDrive Storage</h3><p><a href="https://blog.onedrive.com/your-onedrive-just-got-bigger/" target="_blank">The OneDrive Blog announced Wednesday</a> that the new-and-improved storage capacities Microsoft teased a few weeks back are now available to end users, with free accounts bumped from 7GB to 15GB and Office 365 Home, Personal, or University subscriptions taking a huge leap from 20GB to a full 1TB of additional storage. (The same 1TB also applies to OneDrive for Business users, who previously received only 25GB.) Better yet, paid additional storage just got cheaper, starting at only $1.99 per month for 100GB. Microsoft has tapped into its own Azure cloud service to add another 10 petabytes of capacity for OneDrive, so get out there and start filling it up, folks.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_itunes_pass_expands_kindle_unlimited_logitech_protection#commentsNewsGoogle Plusiphone casesiTunes PassiTunes StoreKindle UnlimitedLogitechOneDriveovernight recapPassbookiPadiPhoneiPodMacThu, 17 Jul 2014 12:43:12 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20330 at http://www.maclife.comReview: Logitech X100 Mobile Wireless Speakerhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/review_logitech_x100_mobile_wireless_speaker
<!--paging_filter--><p>Anyone who lived through the ’80s will remember those ridiculously large “portable” boom boxes that were popular toward the latter half of that decade. If you’re still sore after years of carrying a briefcase-sized stereo on your shoulders, Logitech has a new wireless speaker so small and light that even your chiropractor would approve.</p><p>The Logitech X100 is a Bluetooth A2DP-enabled wireless speaker aimed at the mobile crowd, serving up rich audio from smartphones, tablets, computers, or other devices within a 30-foot range. Not much bigger than a donut, the X100 is sold in five stylish colors (green, grey, orange, red, or yellow), each with a rubberized exterior rugged enough to take the music anywhere you want to go.</p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/logitechx100_620.png" /></p><p>Around the side of the device are power, volume control, and Bluetooth connectivity buttons; in addition, the X100 features a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting other devices, and a micro-USB port capable of fully charging the built-in lithium-ion battery in about two hours. The X100 can also send or receive hands-free smartphone calls, and the speaker remembers the last two connected devices, although only one of them can actually output at a time.</p><p>Logitech claims a full charge keeps the X100 cranking out tunes continuously for five hours, although we managed to go an entire workday using iTunes on our MacBook Pro with Retina Display at lower volumes. While it worked perfectly indoors, the X100 is even better suited to taking music on the road, pumping out impressively rich, clear sound, considering its diminutive size. There’s no stereo output and bass lovers will have to settle for a bit less “oomph” than they may be used to, but the X100 otherwise delivers the goods.</p><p>The only real exception we found was hands-free phone calls, which were unfortunately muffled to the point of being nearly unusable with our iPhone 5s; callers reported having a hard time hearing us, as well. There’s no battery indicator to keep tabs on how long it will be before the X100 conks out, although a bright blue light under the speaker grille works in conjunction with melodic beeps to indicate when the unit is powered on or off, and anytime a device is connected or disconnected.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> The Logitech X100 Mobile Wireless Speaker delivers surprisingly big sound for its nearly pocket-friendly size, although we don’t recommend relying on it for important hands-free speakerphone calls.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Logitech X100 Mobile Wireless Speaker</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Logitech </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.logitech.com" target="_blank">www.logitech.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
$49.99 </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Bluetooth-enabled device supporting A2DP or 3.5mm audio output</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Loud, clear sound in diminutive package. Rugged construction. Five-hour battery life via USB charge. Available in five fashionable colors.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>No stereo audio. Hands-free phone calls sound muffled. No battery-life indicator.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/review_logitech_x100_mobile_wireless_speaker#commentsReviewsaccessoryAudioAudiobluetoothLogitechLogitech X100 Mobile Wireless SpeakerspeakeriPadiPhoneiPodMacThu, 10 Jul 2014 19:05:00 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20291 at http://www.maclife.comOvernight Recap: Amazon Prime Music, Apple EU Tax Probe, Mac Pros Now Readily Availablehttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_amazon_prime_music_apple_eu_tax_probe_mac_pros_now_readily_available
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/amazon_prime_music_good_news_620px.png" alt="Amazon Prime Music good news" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>A bit of both happy and sad news for users of the Photoful app this week: <a href="http://photodrive.io/preview" target="_blank">Developer Jeff Bargmann announced</a> that he's packed his bags and headed to Yahoo, where he'll be working full-time as part of the Flickr team. Bargmann's unreleased PhotoDrive app apparently caught the eye of <a href="http://flickr.tumblr.com/post/88389765751/welcoming-jeff-bargmann-to-flickr" target="_blank">Flickr executive Bernardo Hernandez</a>, so we look forward to seeing what the new pairing comes up with, even though the existing apps will be shut down. Congrats, Jeff!</p><h3>Amazon Prime Music Launches with Rebranded iOS App</h3><p>Amazon Prime subscribers may still be stinging from the recent $20 per year price increase, but it looks like it's being put to good use. As rumored recently, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/ref=sd_allcat_prime_music?ie=UTF8&amp;node=8335758011" target="_blank">Amazon launched a new Prime Music service</a>, offering unlimited, ad-free streaming for more than a million songs and hundreds of playlists, all free for Prime subscribers. The launch also comes with the rebranding of the Amazon Cloud Player app, which is now known simply as <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/amazon-music/id510855668?mt=8" target="_blank">Amazon Music</a> and likewise includes Prime Music streaming while on the go.</p><h3>EU Launches Probe Into Apple's Irish Tax Shelter</h3><p><a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-11/tax-breaks-for-apple-to-starbucks-probed-by-eu-watchdog.html" target="_blank">Bloomberg reported Wednesday</a> that companies like Apple and Starbucks are under fire in Ireland, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg now that the European Union has launched an investigation into "illegal state aid," which has cost the united governments upwards of one trillion euros (USD$1.4 trillion) each year. “Apple pays every euro of every tax that we owe,” the company said in an e-mailed statement. “We have received no selective treatment from Irish officials. Apple is subject to the same tax laws as scores of other international companies doing business in Ireland.” This isn't the first time the Cupertino company has been in hot water over foreign taxes — with a negotiated tax rate of less than two percent in Ireland, a U.S. senate report also singled out Apple last year.</p><h3>Logitech Debuts New Space-Saving 2.1 Multimedia Speakers</h3><p>If you happen to be in the market for new speakers for your Mac or PC, Logitech has just announced a new 2.1 multimedia speaker system that promises to really bring music, movies, and games to life with rich bass. Featuring two satellite speakers and a dedicated subwoofer, the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/news/z213speakers" target="_blank">Logitech Multimedia Speakers Z213</a> are affordably priced at $29.99 and the space-saving design makes them perfectly suited for any system. Couple the Z213 with Logitech's Bluetooth Audio Adapter (available separately) and the jams get pumping without wires. The Logitech Multimedia Speakers Z213 will be available in U.S. retail and online stores later this month.</p><h3>Denial of Service Attack Brings Feedly, Others to Its Knees</h3><p>Have trouble logging in to Feedly or Evernote yesterday? <a href="http://blog.feedly.com/2014/06/11/denial-of-service-attack/" target="_blank">According to the Building Feedly blog</a>, a distributed denial of service attack (DDos) pummeled a number of Internet services early Wednesday, a coordinated assault by criminals who attempted to extort money from the RSS sync provider. Feedly "refused to give in" and the company regained control of its service yesterday afternoon. "We are working in parallel with other victims of the same group and with law enforcement," the blog post elaborated, referring to services like Evernote who were also briefly affected by the attackers. At this writing, everything seems to be back to normal for those affected.</p><h3>Apple Online Store Now Shipping Mac Pro Within 24 Hours</h3><p>Frustrated by the long wait to get your hands on one of those new Mac Pro computers? <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2014/06/11/mac-pro-24-hours/" target="_blank">MacRumors reported Wednesday</a> that Apple's supply appears to finally be catching up to demand nearly six months after launch, with "available to ship" times now "within 24 hours" for the first time. In some cases, units are even available for same-day pickup in many retail locations. Maybe CEO Tim Cook lit a fire under the ass of factory workers in Austin, Texas, where he toured last week while in town to inaugurate the Mac maker's rebooted campus there.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_amazon_prime_music_apple_eu_tax_probe_mac_pros_now_readily_available#commentsNewsAmazon MusicAmazon PrimeApple Online StoreEuropean UnionFeedlyLogitechMac Proovernight recapspeakerstax breakiPadiPhoneiPodMacThu, 12 Jun 2014 12:28:22 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20128 at http://www.maclife.comOvernight Recap: Apple-Beats Cool Factor, Logitech X300, T-Mobile on iOS 8http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_applebeats_cool_factor_logitech_x300_tmobile_ios_8
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_x300_speaker_620px.png" alt="Logitech X300" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Did you know Google owned a digital coupon business? Neither did we until <a href="http://recode.net/2014/06/02/google-will-kill-off-its-digital-coupon-business-zavers/" target="_blank">Re/code recently reported</a> the search giant was killing off Zavers by Google, a service that lasted a mere 17 months (a lifetime by Google standards!), following the Google Shopper app into the great dustbin of great ideas that never took off. But hey, we still have Google Wallet and Google Shopping Express, right?</p><h3>Survey Claims Apple Looks Cooler After Beats Acquisition</h3><p>And here we thought the younger generation already thought Apple was cool: <a href="http://recode.net/2014/06/03/survey-says-apple-gains-cool-among-students-with-beats-deal/" target="_blank">Re/code reported Tuesday</a> that Apple has apparently reclaimed some of the "cool" factor it may have lost in recent months in the wake of the $3 billion acquisition of Beats Electronics. According to a Chegg survey of 10,000 students, nearly all of them had at least heard of Beats, even though only 15 percent actually owned any of the company's products (and even less — three percent — subscribed to Beats Music). However, a whopping 60 percent were aware of the Apple-Beats mashup, with nearly the same percentage claiming the deal would make Apple more popular with their peers. Apparently that Tim Cook knows what he's doing...</p><h3>Logitech Debuts X300 Mobile Wireless Stereo Speaker</h3><p>Summer is upon us, and that means it's time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Thanks to Logitech, that doesn't mean leaving the music behind: The accessory maker announced this week availability of the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/x300-wireless-speaker?wt.mc_id=global_news_x300" target="_blank">Logitech X300 Mobile Wireless Stereo Speaker</a>, a $69.99 portable Bluetooth speaker that comes in four stylish colors capable of streaming music from a mobile device within a 30-foot range for up to five hours of continuous playback. Unlike Logitech's recent X100, the X300 pumps up the jams in full stereo with more precise bass response and detailed mids and highs. The X300 will be available later this month in the U.S. and select Asian countries, and heads to Europe in August.</p><h3>T-Mobile US Confirms Wi-Fi Calling for iOS 8 iPhones</h3><p>Leave it to the "Uncarrier" to be first on the bandwagon! <a href="http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/issues-insights-blog/welcome-to-wi-fi-calling.htm" target="_blank">T-Mobile US announced</a> plans to support Wi-Fi Calling when Apple releases iOS 8 later this year, a feature that will also allow iPhone customers to finally tap into T-Mobile's own flavor of the same technology for the first time. Since 2007, T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling has been limited to Android and Windows smartphones, but the nation's fourth-placed carrier claims "over 90 percent of all T-Mobile smartphones will feature Wi-Fi Calling" once iOS 8 lands on the iPhone. The magenta network also took the opportunity to crow about HD Voice, which is now available on over 30 devices to date, as well as Voice over LTE, which T-Mobile recently launched in Seattle.</p><h3>1Password 4 Makes Leap to Android Next Week</h3><p>Love the convenience of 1Password 4 on your Mac or iOS devices but bummed it's not available on your favorite Android smartphone or tablet? <a href="http://blog.agilebits.com/2014/05/23/1password-4-for-android-is-coming/" target="_blank">AgileBits announced Tuesday</a> that they'll be turning that frown upside down next week with the launch of 1Password 4 for Android — and best of all, it will be (sort of) free. Available Tuesday, June 10, the Android release will be free on Google Play with all features unlocked through August 1. After that, the app will switch to "reader mode," with an in-app purchase available to unlock all features. The developer calls the pricing scheme "an experiment," but one that appears to deliver all the slick looks and functionality of the iOS app to Android phones and tablets at long last.</p><h3>Adobe Releases Camera Raw 8.5 Release Candidate</h3><p><a href="http://blogs.adobe.com/lightroomjournal/2014/06/camera-raw-8-5-rc-and-dng-converter-8-5-rc-now-available.html" target="_blank">Adobe's Lightroom Journal announced Tuesday</a> the availability of new Camera Raw 8.5 Release Candidate, in tandem with DNG Converter 8.5 Release Candidate. Available for Photoshop CS6 and Photoshop CC, Camera Raw 8.5 bundles new support for cameras such as the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II and Fuji FinePix S1 as well as recent models from Nikon, Olympus, and Panasonic. The update also introduces the ability to modify Graduated and Radial Filter masks with a brush, new Per-Panell Preview default toggles, and the usual bevy of bug fixes. Hit the link to find out how to download the free updates!<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_applebeats_cool_factor_logitech_x300_tmobile_ios_8#commentsNews1Password 4Apple Inc.Beats ElectronicsiOS 8Logitechovernight recapstudentsSurveysT-Mobile USWi-Fi CallingiPadiPhoneiPodMacWed, 04 Jun 2014 12:28:26 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20079 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's Best Deals for Your Mac and iOS Device, May 29http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_may_29
<!--paging_filter--><p>So maybe you heard the rumor that the latest OS X beta suggests new iMacs are possible soon and you'd like to put off that purchase as long as possible. Good for you, but if the situation is desperate and you've got to get a new machine, consider the refurb market. Nearly new, Apple certified, and savings galore. Go have a look.</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_may_29#commentsGallerybluetooth keyboard caseBluetooth SpeakerschargingDealsdocksiMaciPadiPad Airipad air caseiPad caseipad coversiPad Miniipad mini caseiphone 5 caseiphone 5S casekeyboard caseLogitechMacBookmacbook airmacbook proPrice Droprefurbsalessmart coversusb hubweekly dealsThu, 29 May 2014 18:15:19 +0000J Keirn-Swanson20038 at http://www.maclife.comOvernight Recap: Logitech Protective Cases, A&E on Apple TV, Netflix Price Hikehttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_logitech_protective_cases_ae_apple_tv_netflix_price_hike
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_big_bang_case_falls_620px.png" alt="Logitech Big Bang" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Happy Earth Day! Apple is celebrating this year's event by now accepting any of the company's older products for recycling at its retail stores, as well as attacking rivals like Samsung with green-focused advertising touting "There are some ideas we want every company to copy." The campaign also extends to Apple's website, which now features a home page squarely focused on the environment, complete with green leaf accents added to the online store.</p><h3>Logitech Debuts Trio of New Cases for iPad Air, iPad mini</h3><p>In the market for a new case to protect your iPad? <a href="http://blog.logitech.com/2014/04/22/with-logitech-protective-cases-the-ipad-adjusts-to-you/" target="_blank">Logitech has you covered with three new solutions</a> that look to be as functional as they are attractive. First up is the Logitech Hinge ($59.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/hinge-air?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad Air</a>, $49.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/hinge-mini?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad mini</a>), a flexible grey case that features a unique smooth-gliding hinge which allows the iPad to be placed at a variety of "just right" angles and even rotated within a 50-degree angle. Speaking of which, the Logitech Turnaround (also $59.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/turnaround-air?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad Air</a>, $49.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/turnaround-mini?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad mini</a>) is a black case offering both protection and the ability to rotate the iPad from portrait to landscape with a multi-angle stand offering four positions. Last but not least, Logitech Big Bang (shown above, $99.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/big-bang-case-ipad-air?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad Air</a>, $79.99 <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/big-bang-case-ipad-mini?crid=1240" target="_blank">iPad mini</a>) is a thin, light case available in Super Fluo or Graphite colors made from shock-absorbent materials for maximum protection from drops or tumbles. All three cases are now available for preorder from the Logitech website and are expected to touch down in the U.S. next month.</p><h3>A&amp;E, History, Lifetime Finally Come to Apple TV</h3><p><a href="http://9to5mac.com/2014/04/21/apple-adds-ae-history-channel-and-lifetime-channels-to-apple-tv/" target="_blank">As noted by 9to5Mac on Monday</a>, a trio of basic cable channels have popped up on the Apple TV with the arrival of A&amp;E, History, and Lifetime. That's pretty much the extent of the good news, because a cable subscription is required to unlock all of the available content from the channels, and at the moment those choices are limited to DirecTV, Verizon FiOS, and Cablevision Optimum only. But there's hope for more choices yet to come, since the A&amp;E-owned channels updated their iOS apps last week and included a much larger roster of providers.</p><h3>Here Comes That Netflix Price Hike You've Been Bracing For</h3><p><a href="http://files.shareholder.com/downloads/NFLX/3109176389x0x745654/fb5aaae0-b991-4e76-863c-3b859c8dece8/Q114%20Earnings%20Letter%204.21.14%20final.pdf" target="_blank">Netflix announced quarterly results on Monday</a> (PDF link), and tucked away inside good news like the addition of four million new members was the decidedly bummer news that the streaming giant will soon be raising prices. The service expects to introduce "a one or two dollar increase" later this quarter, but will limit it to new members for now. "Existing members would stay at current pricing (e.g. $7.99 in the U.S.) for a generous time period," the shareholder letter revealed, which the company claims "will enable us to acquire more content and deliver an even better streaming experience." If you've been on the fence about subscribing, might want to sign up today, folks...</p><h3>Pre-Lion Macs to Lose AIM iChat Logins on June 30</h3><p><a href="http://www.zdnet.com/end-of-the-line-coming-for-apple-ichat-log-ins-to-aim-on-older-macs-7000028595/" target="_blank">ZDNet reported Monday</a> that it will soon be curtains for owners of older Macs who use an AIM account to log into iChat. <a href="http://support.apple.com/kb/TS5224?viewlocale=en_US&amp;locale=en_US" target="_blank">According to an Apple support note</a>, users of older Mac operating systems will need to upgrade to OS X Lion 10.7.2 or later before June 30, 2014 if they want to continue using AIM for logging into iChat. The change appears to have been made "to ensure a secure and reliable experience," but it's likely to create headaches for PowerPC-based Mac users stuck on OS X Leopard 10.5 who are otherwise unable to move to Lion — let alone Mountain Lion 10.8 or even Mavericks 10.9.</p><h3>Screens 3.3 for iOS Shores Up Keyboard Support</h3><p><a href="http://blog.edovia.com/2014/04/21/screens-3-3-is-all-about-keyboards/" target="_blank">Edovia delivered Screens 3.3 for iOS on Monday</a>, an update that's all about how the app interacts with hardware keyboards. "With version 3.3, you no longer need to tap on the Keyboard button to use your Bluetooth keyboard," the company explained in a blog post. "Just start typing and Screens will detect that you are using a physical keyboard!" The update also addresses a bug that could cause an external keyboard to be used in full-screen mode as well as "the usual stability improvements." Screens 3.3 for iOS is now available from the App Store as a free download for existing users.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="http://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_logitech_protective_cases_ae_apple_tv_netflix_price_hike#commentsNewsA&EaimApp StoreApple TViChatiPad Airipad casesiPad MiniLogitechnetflixovernight recapScreens for iOSiPadiPhoneiPodMacTue, 22 Apr 2014 12:42:22 +0000J.R. Bookwalter19799 at http://www.maclife.comLogitech Announces First Illuminated Living Room Keyboard for Mac or PChttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/logitech_announces_first_illuminated_living_room_keyboard_mac_or_pc
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_illuminated_living_room_keyboard_620px.png" alt="Logitech Illuminated Living Room Keyboard K830" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Despite a veritable tidal wave of new media streaming boxes for the living room, many consumers still prefer to keep a slim, headless Mac or PC connected to their HDTV — but suffering with a keyboard in a darkened room doesn't sound like much fun.<br /><br />Logitech is attempting to solve this dilemma with <a href="http://blog.logitech.com/2014/04/09/shedding-light-on-pc-to-tv-entertainment/" target="_blank">Wednesday's announcement</a> of the Illuminated Living Room Keyboard K830, which, as the name implies, allows full navigation of a home theatre PC, even after the lights go down.<br /><br />The K830 allows viewers to sit comfortably up to 33 feet away from their connected television and bundles a touchpad with a backlit keyboard whose keys automatically dim or brighten depending how much light is in the room where it's being used.<br /><br />The rechargeable keyboard offers soft keys that Logitech has optimized for control of home entertainment systems in a streamlined, rechargeable package. The K830 also includes Logitech Options software, allowing users to take full control of the keyboard's functionality and customize both touchpad and keys to their liking.<br /><a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/living-room-keyboard-k830" target="_blank"><br />Logitech Illuminated Living Room Keyboard K830</a> is now available for preorder from the company's website for $99.99 and will ship to U.S. and European customers later this month.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="http://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/logitech_announces_first_illuminated_living_room_keyboard_mac_or_pc#commentsNewsbacklit keyboardHome TheaterilluminatedKeyboardsliving roomLogitechpreordersrechargeable batterywirelessMacThu, 10 Apr 2014 12:51:56 +0000J.R. Bookwalter19720 at http://www.maclife.comOvernight Recap: Logitech X100, Safari 7.0.3, Pebble iOS Warning, Adobe NABhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_logitech_x100_safari_703_pebble_ios_warning_adobe_nab
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/logitech_x100_speakers_620px.png" alt="Logitech X100 speakers" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Whew! We made it through another April Fool's Day mostly unscathed. Anyone who was fooled by "news" that Apple was acquiring popular teardown service iFixit or other such silliness is probably relieved that the calendar has flipped to April 2, and with a new day comes another batch of news from the tech community. Read on to see what you might have missed yesterday!</p><h3>Logitech Announces $50 X100 Mobile Wireless Speaker</h3><p>Logitech announced a diminutive new addition to its wireless lineup on Tuesday with the introduction of the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/x100-mobile-wireless-speaker?crid=1518" target="_blank">X100</a>, a $49.99 Bluetooth-enabled mobile speaker available in one of five colors (green, grey, orange, red or yellow). Featuring five-hour battery life, the X100 is roughly the size of a donut (3.3 inches diameter) and can stream music or phone calls from up to 30 feet away from any compatible smartphone or tablet. Logitech even includes a built-in mic, making it perfect for on-the-go, hands-free calling. The X100 will begin shipping in early April, so head to the Logitech website and grab your place in line today.</p><h3>Apple Releases Safari 7.0.3 Fixes Mavericks Push Notifications</h3><p><a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2014/04/01/apple-releases-safari-7-0-3/" target="_blank">As noted by MacRumors</a>, Apple followed up its iWork updates on Tuesday with the release of Safari 7.0.3, the latest version of its web browser for OS X Mavericks. The update addresses an issue where Safari 7 would load a search query before the user pressed the return key, as well as bugs that caused push notifications from websites to stop working and the ability to toggle off notifications as needed. Last but not least, the update improves credit card autofill and plugs a few security holes recently discovered. Apple has also released Safari 6.1.3, which brings many of the same updates to OS X Mountain Lion and OS X Lion users as well.</p><h3>Pebble Warns Smartwatch Owners to Avoid Latest iOS Update</h3><p>The makers of the Pebble smartwatch <a href="http://forums.getpebble.com/discussion/12296/issue-pebble-ios-app-v2-1-updated-31-mar-crashing" target="_blank">announced Monday</a> that customers should avoid its latest version 2.1 update for iOS due to a "critical issue" that could affect "connecting, loading, and managing your Pebble from the application." As a result, the app update was pulled from the App Store, but a new version 2.1.1 is under expedited review with Apple and should be winging its way to Pebble owners soon. In the meantime, the blog post details a user-suggested workaround for those who have already downloaded and installed the rogue update.</p><h3>Adobe Preps New Pro Video Updates for NAB 2014</h3><p><a href="http://blogs.adobe.com/creativecloud/revealing-the-next-wave-of-innovation-in-pro-video-apps/" target="_blank">Adobe announced Tuesday</a> that the company is planning to unveil some major updates to its pro video software during next week's NAB 2014 trade show in Las Vegas. The centerpiece of these changes is an update to Premiere Pro CC which delivers Live Text templates and powerful new Masking and Tracking tools. After Effects CC also gains new keying effects and now connects with Adobe Kuler, while SpeedGrade CC is now more streamlined with Premiere Pro and Audition CC introduces support for Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus. Adobe will be demonstrating all of the new Creative Cloud pro video enhancements during an <a href="http://www.adobe.com/cfusion/event/index.cfm?event=detail&amp;id=1903730&amp;loc=en_us" target="_blank">online webinar</a> next Thursday, April 10 at 10AM PST. Be sure to register now to save your virtual seat!</p><h3>BlackBerry Calls It Quits with T-Mobile US</h3><p>Former smartphone giant BlackBerry was none too impressed when T-Mobile US recently tried to woo its remaining loyal handset owners into a shiny new iPhone, and now the company is taking its ball and going home. <a href="http://press.blackberry.com/press/2014/blackberry-ends-t-mobile-u-s--licensing-agreement.html" target="_blank">BlackBerry announced Tuesday</a> that the company will not renew its U.S. licensing agreement with T-Mo, claiming "our strategies are not complementary and we must act in the best interest of our BlackBerry customers." The hammer will fall on April 25, but BlackBerry claims the company "will do everything in our power to provide continued support with your existing carrier or ensure a smooth transition to our other carrier partners." BlackBerry CEO John Chen also left the door open just a peek, stating the manufacturer hopes to "work with T-Mobile again in the future when our business strategies are aligned." Zing!<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="http://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_logitech_x100_safari_703_pebble_ios_warning_adobe_nab#commentsNewsAdobeblackberrybluetoothLogitechNABovernight recappebbleportable speakerspush notificationsSafari 7T-Mobile USiPadiPhoneiPodMacWed, 02 Apr 2014 12:42:25 +0000J.R. Bookwalter19668 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's Best Deals for Your Mac and iOS Device, March 20http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_march_20
<!--paging_filter--><p>We start small today and build bit by bit to the biggest Macs around, so begin with us at the tiniest of refurbs and grow. And this week is heavy on the devices, since there are so many great deals out there. There's a little something for everyone in this week's refurb round up, and with all the money you save on these slashed prices, don't forget to check out our gear deals too.</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/weeks_best_deals_your_mac_and_ios_device_march_20#commentsGalleryAirport ExpressAirPort ExtremeApple TVbluetooth keyboardbluetooth keyboard caseearphonesEarPodsfitnessfolio casegadgetsiMaciPad 2iPad 4iPad Miniiphoneiphone 4iPhone 4 Caseiphone 5iphone 5 caseiPhone 5CiPhone 5Siphone 5S caseiPodiPod nanoiPod touchKensingtonKeyboardkeyboard caseLogitechMacBookmacbook airmacbook prosoundpadwireless speakersThu, 20 Mar 2014 19:10:03 +0000J Keirn-Swanson19591 at http://www.maclife.com